My Blooming Life

Always Continue the Hunt

2012-02-15T15:17:00.000-08:00

I admit it, I'm a bit of an inspiration junkie -
especially tidbits about the creative process.
I tell you, I can glean it from the CRAZIEST places.
But from a Surf God?
Really?
Well, I do live in Surf City.

Last night, we watched Laird Hamilton on OWN network's "Master Class" (while munching our Valentine chocolate dipped strawberries, thank you very much!)

There were many life lessons he spoke to during the show.
But the part that really got me was a segment subtitled "always continue the hunt".

In it, Laird says, and I'm paraphrasing, "One of my goals from the beginning was to love surfing -- to make sure I don't EVER stop loving surfing. To continue to love it, I must create aspects of it that I'm pursuing . . . that I'm striving toward. I have morphing goals . . . when I get near it, I change it. As a hunter/gatherer, when we stop having something to hunt, we lose the whole point."

I feel the same way about painting.
This has led me to many a class, many an artist date and many a book about creativity.

I want to always love painting.
And that means I have to continuously practice, seek inspiration, seek community, grow & stretch.

Sometimes those pieces come easily, often they don't.
Right now I'm having a helluva a time!
I am SERIOUSLY in love with painting!

Here's one I started today.....

(collage, acrylic and pencil on 36x36" canvas)

She's gotta a bit of an attitude, don't you think?
I don't know where these characters come from.....

I'll leave you with a bit of the Laird Hamilton show....
not the segment I spoke of, but it's another goodie.....enjoy!
(Forgive the short commercial in the beginning.)

Laird Hamilton's Toughest Competitor

Surfer Laird Hamilton says he is his own toughest competition. Find out why he only uses his gift on the water for art, not contests.

On the Easel & In the Art Journal

2012-02-14T15:01:00.000-08:00

Here's what's on the easel today . . . .

(Collage, acrylic and Stabilo Aquarellable pencil on 30"x48" gallery wrapped canvas)

And here's what showed up in the art journal.....

(Collage, acrylic, watercolor & Stabilo Aquarellable pencil on Fabriano 140lb hotpress watercolor paper bound in my handmade journal).

Looks as if "primitive abstract" is my current direction.
Is that a real art category?
I doubt it, but it's where I'm at!

As for the work on canvas, I doubt I'll do much more to it - I'm digging the unfinished look of it. We'll see how it looks when it's dry...

What's on your easel?

How Things Change

2012-02-09T16:13:00.001-08:00

Today, this painting looks like this . . .

Just yesterday, it looked like this.

Not a lot of change, but a bit of blue is good, don't you think?

And for a week, these little cross paintings had no "jewel" in the center,
no glint of gold within the lapis blue,
nor much shading to speak of......

But now, they're different - a little more depth, a lot more sparkle.
Just like my life since discovering I'm an artist -
which wasn't long ago . . . feels like just yesterday.

Surrendering to the urge to create has changed me.
No more corporate sales gigs, no more business suits . . . just paint spattered jeans and ruined manicures.
No more "9 to 5" - I seldom watch the clock anymore.
No brainy sales strategies to implement - instead, I let my heart lead.

Don't get me wrong . . . my "previous" life was not bad - not at all!
I enjoyed my success and had great friends, great clients.
It brought a life I couldn't have otherwise had, including my marriage and our home.

One blessing has been finding my "Art Tribe" .
They seem to see me . . . they understand my SoulTruth.
They understand words like SoulTruth!

I'm so very grateful for these enormous shifts.
I am happy to wake up every day curious . . . excited to see what's next!
Don't you just love how things change?

Be the Vessel, Part Three

2012-02-08T15:30:00.001-08:00

I'm continuing to follow my fascination with all things "vessel".
It's becoming an obsession - one I'm happily indulging.

Here's what's "on the easel" today - well, what's tacked to the wall.

It's bigger than the others in the series.... about 2 ft x 4 ft.
Again, it's collage and acrylic on unstretched canvas.

Think there's a bit more to do on it, but letting it sit for a day or two before deciding.

Below are the three smaller ones I completed last week.
I framed them in open frames - they're recessed and touchable.

The vessels have also found their way onto my new art journal I bound using my favorite paper.

(Favorite paper you ask? Fabriano Hot Press 140 lb watercolor paper in the 22x30" sheets, of course. I tear the signatures to any size I like. The paper is thick, smooth and will take ANY medium!)

More decorating of the cover vessels is sure to follow . . .

I love the mushy softness of this journal....way more tactile than a hard bound book.

Signing off for now - but before I go....I gotta make a decision on what to do Friday on my "artist date".....

Here's 101 ideas here.

(Museum was done last week - looking for something a little lighter this week.)

Check this video - Julia Cameron, author of "The Artist's Way", discusses what an "artist date" is:

Have Sketch Book, Will Travel

2012-02-03T16:54:00.000-08:00

Living in crowded Orange County CA has its advantages . . .

I'm very fortunate to live near the Bowers Museum of Cultural Art....with it's mood lighting and tribal music, it feels like a mini trip around the world.

What was intended as a one hour "artist date" with my sketchbook, turned into three!

Today, I went early and was blessed with near empty galleries and only the occasional peeker into my sketchbook.

Never mind the rowdy group of teenagers playing hide and seek in the Pre-Columbian room...kind of spooky, them hiding in the shadows.

I visited the permanent exhibits where the Mayan and other Native American art lives.

If I could encourage you to do just one thing, it would be to keep a sketchbook - seek out and take note of what inspires you.

For me, it's other cultures - their art, their clothing, their ritual, their symbology, their music.....

Everything about exotic or primitive peoples fascinates me and leaves me dreaming.

My quick sketches are not meant to be art....
rather it's the place to play, really "see" things - the details.....learn....find what I love.

And that may indeed lead to making art.

This year, I will be doing this more often and I'm taking you with me.

Show me what you love - share your sketchbooks!

Do leave a link to your pictures or blog posts in the comments section.

You see, I'm that girl straining her neck in museums and coffee shops to see what's in your sketchbook.
Come on show me yours, I always show you mine!

Note: The Bowers museum allows non-flash photography - many museums do not, so be sure to check their rules first.
I've never visited a museum that did not allow sketching, however.
They do frown upon leaning on their walls and exhibits....not that I have any experience with that.

Be The Vessel, Part Deux

2012-02-01T14:55:00.001-08:00

More "vessels" pouring forth...well this one happened today.

This one told me it needed an adobe added to it, so I had to oblige.

So three completed in the last two days and four more backgrounds readied with first layers of collage and paint.....feeling those will likely be crosses rather than vessels - but we'll see what happens next!

Thank you all for such supportive, encouraging and sweet comments on my last few posts.
You don't know what they mean to me - it can get a little lonely in the studio you know.
Thank you from the bottom of my creative heart.
By the way, I accidently deleted a couple of your amazing comments while scanning my spam folder - which made me so sad.
So if you happened to have noticed your's went missing, know it was received and very very much appreciated.
Just a slip of a paint covered finger and poof, they were gone . . . sigh.

Be The Vessel

2012-01-31T18:42:00.001-08:00

If you have been following this blog lately, you know I've been wrestling with the decision to continue blogging this year or not.

You see, I knew I'd be devoting this entire year to exploring my creative yearnings - FULL TILT!

Whether or not to continue blogging was the question.

Well, the decision is now made........I intend to blog the journey - so you may be seeing me more often, rather than less!

Today, I woke with an idea.
One you see the beginnings of here . . .

The idea is simply to
DO EVERYTHING I NEVER DO, BUT ALWAYS WANTED TO:

#1 - Use collage elements - it always seemed like too much work until now.
#2 - Use a deeper, earthier palette than my usual brights - touches of brights good, whole paintings . . . not so much - at least for a while!
#3 - Paint small, instead of my typical BIG canvases.
#4 - Consciously choose symbols I'm drawn to as the focal image, rather than smaller elements in a painting.

So I've begun this new series of small paintings - about 8"x12".
I will age these further by folding, wrinkling and curling the canvas.....then mount in a shadow box type frame.

As for the process . . . I cannot properly express how thrilling it is to hear a new idea....then have it manifest before you.

Its magical . . . as if I have nothing at all to do with it . . . to know, I am simply the vessel . . . the container from which it flows - and that happens when I trust, and simply allow.

*********

"The time has come to turn your heart into a temple of fire."
~Rumi

Wiping the Mirror

2012-01-22T15:06:00.000-08:00

I've been re-reading Julia Cameron's "The Artist's Way". Now that's a book I can read over and over again, yet still come away with wisdom that somehow seems new. I suppose one just "hears" what's most relevant to your life at the time....

In one section, Ms. Cameron writes about "wiping the mirror" - that time of change where you are letting go of old ways, and making way for the new. It's a time that things may be foggy and unclear.....what once fit, suddenly doesn't seem right anymore. It's a time to deeply listen to one's internal wisdom - one's soultruth. That's exactly where I'm at right now.

If you read my last blog post, you know I recently underwent major surgery. It was a decision I delayed making for over a year. I researched . . . I thought . . . I prayed . . . I procrastinated. Yes, I was more than a little scared. Sure, surgery is scary - especially those parts about pain, and recovery and gasp - being put to sleep.

But that wasn't really it.....well, it was and it wasn't. The scariest part was knowing I had SO much I wanted to do. Things I've dreamt of and planned - and for whatever reasons, haven't done. What if suddenly, I wasn't able to do that life?

Well, I did wake up. Now I have to make good on my bargain with the "Great Creator". . . the one I made before finally surrendering to anesthesia and faith in my brilliant doctor's skills.

Now fear is really gripping my heart. Now I have to do that life . . . I promised the Big Guy in the Sky. So I'm taking the next leap of faith and jumping in - feet first. I'm trembling. It's true.

In my last blog post, I expressed the desire to spend the year exploring my creative edge - daily painting, weekly artist dates and a major re-do of our home. I also mused about whether or not to take a blogging hiatus during this time. Now, I'm in a place that has me actually wanting to blog MORE, not less - just to document it all.

I can't say I've come to a decision, but for sure I've decided the following:

1. I will create - daily if at all possible. Painting will be my primary focus.
2. I will enjoy "artist dates" weekly, with at least 1 major date a month (ie. museum visits, art shows, etc.) This inspires me, educates me and generally, "fills the well".
3. I will re-do our home - mostly because I LOVE to do it - decor and fashion are true creative loves. AND our home could use a little TLC.

All of this must begin "softly" and increase over the next few weeks, as I'm still recovering from the surgery. My doc says I must go slowly - dang it. Even walking my "behavior-challenged" dog is risky right now, but I'm more than ready for a little risky business!

Doodle Dawdle (and big decisions)

2012-01-16T17:18:00.000-08:00

Obsessed with the sketchbook today.....

I'm laying low (under doctor's orders) cause I snuck off and had some major surgery last week.
(A big secret to all but a few!)

Good news is that I feel so great, I've not even had 1 pain pill.....not one!

Bad news is, I'm not allowed to drive or do much of anything yet.
Seems my body's got some hidden healing to do.
So I've gone "underground".

Ya know, it's sometimes hard to accept the love you're blessed with - at least it is for me.
It's actually been quite difficult for me to receive all the food makin' and errand runnin' and chore doin' I've been gifted with.
I'm trying to "breathe it all in" and know it's okay to ask for help.
I'm so very grateful for such loving friends and family.
(I want to send each and every one of them a big sappy love letter.)

So, with all this freedom, it's to the sketchbook I've gone.

With oodles of time to dawdle and daydream, I'm making lots of yummy plans.

My creative heart is filling with so many ideas, that I'm tempted to take an extended blogging hiatus - for perhaps the entire year of 2012!

What? What!

I dunno. I just don't know yet. But I'm feeling pulled in that direction......

I'm dreaming of spending the year in total creative immersion.
Lot's of "what if's" are floating around.....
for instance, "what if" I did nothing but paint for an entire year?
"What if" I spent every day in the studio or on inspiring artist dates?
"What if" our home became a huge creative project in itself this year?
I'd so dig that.
And there's much to be done to flesh out the art journaling class I'm leading in the Spring.

So much to be excited about - so much I want to do.

So I'll sit with it during this forced downtime of mine and let you know what comes of it -
you'll be the first to know!

Introducing JournalQuest™

2012-01-01T20:21:00.000-08:00

Do you dare step into an artistic adventure of the heart?
Do you dream of discovering what’s hidden within?

During JournalQuest™, you’ll encounter exotic creatures, ancient artifacts, meaningful symbols and lore . . . the stuff of legend! It was there all the time, buried deep and waiting to excavated by you.

You can learn more about JournalQuest™ in the video below.

JournalQuest™ is one of 21 online art journaling classes offered in this year's "21 Secrets: An Art Journal Playground." Art Journaling Virgins & Veterans welcomed! You get the entire offering of 21 classes for $59 - it's on sale now, begins April 1st and is open until January 1, 2013. That's nine months of art journaling love!

My class will include at least two instructional videos and a downloadable PDF.

For more information, or to register, "click here to view more details".

Fa La La La La

2011-12-20T17:01:00.000-08:00

I've been away from the studio for so long it seems - doesn't the holiday time get busy?
Fun, yes....but busy busy!

So today I made a date with a paint brush and cranked out lots of painted papers....which became a couple of single signature journals. That's a lot of painting paper I tell ya!

I doubt I'll get much more time for paint and play this week, so I wanted to wish you all the merriest of holidays!

AND a very creative new year!

By the way.....anyone else out there choosing a "word" or "theme" for the new year? I've done it for a couple of years now and I swear to you it's a compass....a true north.

I went through a couple of try on words - One week it was SURRENDER, the next it was ALIGN. But I know what it is for sure now......it's SOULTRUTH. I know, it's made up and it's mine! Makes me actually shiver when I say it - so it must be right. Drop me a comment and let me know your's!

A Reminder to be Kinder (to ourselves)

2011-12-12T16:36:00.001-08:00

Creativity Camp!

2011-12-01T06:47:00.000-08:00

Amidst the mad rush and obligations of the holidays, are you ready to keep daily creative practice a front and center priority?

Yay! Me too!

Join me and the Cosmic Cowgirls on line beginning December 5 for four weeks of catalytic creativity! Here's the scoop:

* Four weeks, 15 minutes a day – Rock a creative project of your choice and strengthen your creative practice! *

* Be inspired by sharings and prompts from Jenafer Joy and featured Cosmic Cowgirls! (hey I'm a featured artist!) *

* Deepen your relationship with your inner muse, creative intuition and unique expression! *

* Have a blast cheerleading others and being supported by a community of women on the creative path with you! *

* Give yourself permission and a structure. Choose a creative project and come marinate in your own artistic juices! *

This will be a fun and stress free zone - really! Gifting yourself with creativity each day will keep you happy and sane through the holiday season!

Creativity Camp is just $79 - this link will take you to more information.

You can register here.

I hope to see you there!!

Day 23 - AEDM: Beginnings And . . . Pauses

2011-11-23T15:23:00.000-08:00

Sometimes I get so cross . . . angry even.

Angry that I've got other stuff to do - stuff other than make art.

I've got a list and responsibilities and family and kids and holidays.

But then I remember . . .

I wouldn't have it any other way.

My art will always be there. I have no deadline to meet . . . except the ones I artificially create.

And it's okay to pause, to enjoy, to live life outside the studio. My Art Every Day Month may not be "art every day". And that's okay. So I'm pausing now for a day or two with just these "beginnings". Beginnings of art that may or not get completed any time soon.

But you can find other AEDMonthers here. Happy Thanksgiving to you all - enjoy the pause!

See you Friday - or not!
xoxoxo

Day 22 - AEDM: Inspiration & Art Journaling

2011-11-22T05:52:00.000-08:00

I'm just back from a beautiful trip to the California desert. I'm so fortunate to live near the beautiful Coachella Valley - home to the infamous Coachella Music Festival - to which I've never YET been.

I had a full schedule while away, so never took the time to even sketch . . . but I gathered plenty of inspiration!

Just look at this necklace a friend was wearing! It's by artist Sergio Bustamante. It reminds me of so many of the intuitive paintings I adore.

This same friend is a master gardener and has 2 acres of the most incredible gardens in Northern California. I'm begging her to let me schedule a painting retreat on the grounds. Oh a girl can dream!! Sigh.

I was also attracted to some beautiful ceramics at our hotel. Filled with pattern and color, they have inspired new backgrounds in my art journal. I don't know when I'll be able to stop with that!

The one below began with gluing on a bit of my AriZona Tea label - can you see that? Thanks to Hansel, I'm now addicted.

Just look at this brave little roadrunner who came to visit us while we lounged by the pool. They have the coolest eyes!

I'm just itching to get back to some painting on canvas ....but with the holiday this week and prep for our own party next week, I'm not sure if I'll be able. So fortunate to have my art journal and sketchbooks to grab for a few minutes of creative time....see you tomorrow!

Go here to be inspired by other AEDMonthers!

Day 16 - Art Every Day Month: This n That

2011-11-16T14:00:00.001-08:00

I was a bit low energy today, so spent some time dilly dallying with this and that.

I added pen marks and splatters to the post cards and book marks I did yesterday.
If you missed yesterday's post, go here to see the tutorial - it's a super easy and fun project!

Also did a super thick background spread for the art journal

and added some outline & shadowing to the flower background spread I'd done earlier in the week - this stuff just gets done layer by layer ya know.

Spent some time daydreaming about the upcoming online class I'll be teaching at next year's 21 Secrets.
I know I know . . . it's so far away, right? But it'll be here before ya know it and I gots to be prepared!
More details coming soon....

Oh and today's Fashion Feature is a little shot of the Studio Shoes. You can't tell it from this photo, but these are actually "ELVIS" shoes. He is the King!

By the way, not sure how much I'll post until Sunday - got some fun plans for the next few days. That may only allow time for me to sketch now and then. I'll be sure and share what I've done when I'm back from my little break. Toodles!

Go here for other AEDMonther's this and that's.

Day 15- AEDM: Scrappy Bookmarks

2011-11-15T15:05:00.001-08:00

If you're like me, you have a stash of scrap papers, fabrics and other bits and pieces, right?
Here's a fun way to use 'em up.

Throw those scraps down on pieces of large paper you have - I'm using cut open grocery sacks here.
Glue with plain old white glue.
Don't even think about making pretty or coordinating your colors.

Then, using whatever acrylic paints you have - even kid's paint will do, swish some color here and there.

Throw on some glitter . . .

fabric flowers . . . puff paint squiggles . . . ink drips, bubble wrap imprints, stamps, anything and everything you have!

Up close it'll look like a big colorful mess - no worries!

Let all that dry, then glue the large pieces back to back - so that the paint & collage shows on both sides.

After all of that is really dry, it's time to cut the collaged paper into bookmark sized strips.
I've got a paper cutter, but it's easily done with scissors.

While you're at it, cut some to use as post cards or to bind into your art journal!

You could even go a step or two further with pen marks, oil pastels, etc. Go wild!

See what those other wild AEDMonthers are up to here!

Sidenote(s):

Like my cool graffiti painted apron in the first photo? I learned to do it from a tutorial by Alisa Burke in Somerset's Workshop Magazine waaaaaay back when.

I'm also sporting a "Fear No Art" pin by artist and personal hero Andre Miripolsky. I've had it for something like 20 years. I had the pleasure of meeting him last year and see that he still sells those pins - I got the poster to match!

Making his debut to the right of the same photo, is my Mom's dog and studio mate, "Burrito Don Julio Lotto Bell". Big name, little dog.

Big News - 21 Secrets 2012 Is Coming!!

2011-11-14T06:22:00.000-08:00

I'm so excited to share that I'll be one of 21 artists teaching in next year's 21 Secrets!

21 SECRETS is an annual online, self guided, Art Journaling workshop that runs for a total of nine months where Art Journalers receive the opportunity to dive into different techniques, methods, and approaches to Art Journaling from a family of diverse, passionate, professional Artists. Each participant is able to choose which order of the 21 classes they take and have an active online community to share and grow with. All information including, pdf's, videos, and supportive text and photos are always available and teachers are present in a timely fashion to answer questions and share their comments.

Just look at this line up of amazing artists!

Aimee Dolich

Alma Stoller

Christine Mason Miller

Christy Tomilson

Connie Hozvicka

Dale Ann Potter

Diana Trout

Dina Wakley

Dion Dior

Gina Rossi Armfield

Jenica McKenzie

Julie Fei-Fan Balzer

Karin Bartimole

Kathryn Antyr

Kelly Barton

Ken Robert

Martha Lever

Nolwenn Petitbois

Traci Bunkers

Zom Osborne

21 SECRETS officially goes on sale starting January 2, 2012 at the low price of $59.
That's right . . . all 21 classes for $59!
I'll be sure to remind you when it's time to register!

Day 13 - Art Every Day Month: Style Files

2011-11-13T16:20:00.000-08:00

I wouldn't call what I've been up to today "art".
But you see, where I'm from, there's an old saying.....
It goes something like this, "Sometimes you fish, sometimes you cut bait."

And what I do in my "Style Files" is cut A LOT of bait.

In my large blank book, I gather images.

Images of what I dream of - exotic clothes, creative spaces, crazy color combinations . . .

camel rides, outdoor showers and locales from Morocco to Marfa, Texas . . .

Not only is my "Style File" a place to dream, it also provides a cache of "models" for sketching.

It's clear that I have varied tastes - from sleek, modern homes to quaint cottages filled with roses.

I may be fickle and eclectic in what draws my eye - but dark, spicy, ethnic and worldly is what this Texas-born, green-eyed, blonde truly longs for. It's so easy to see that after collaging soooo many images in this fat book of mine.

This is the perfect little project for lazy days - days too lazy to pull out much more than scissors and a glue stick.

By the way, my absolutely favorite magazines to pull images from are the imports.
Things just look different in those mags - eye candy, for sure! Here's a few:

Inside Out Magazine from Austrailia
Living Etc. Magazine from the UK
Marie Claire Idees from France

and my fave catalogs are these:

Free People, Anthropologie and Johnny Was.

Do you cut and paste? I'd love to see some of yours if you do! Comment with a link!

See what the other AEDMonthers are doing today here.

Day 12- Art Every Day Month- Sac Complète!

2011-11-12T10:54:00.001-08:00

This morning, I completed the tote bag makeover I showed you yesterday.

Smeary black "shadows" were added around the flowers.

Spatters and a bit of spray paint here and there.

A Sharpie pen came in handy to outline the petals and add a few scribbles.

Do you likey? I do! It's all grey and sprinkly outside - this "graffiti floral" warms me up!

Go see what other AEDMonthers are up to here!

Day 11 - Art Every Day Month: Painted Tote

2011-11-11T15:47:00.000-08:00

Today, wanting a break from the usual canvas or paper, I grabbed one of my "art bags" - this one is a canvas tote bag I'd gotten as one of those "gift with purchases" at Victoria Secret.

I'd painted the bag a long time ago with a really bright palette - it was now time for a new look.

I figured the best way to change the look would be to begin with black and white....so I haphazardly slapped on inexpensive acrylic paints with a sponge brush. It easily covered the old design. I didn't clean the brush or let dry in between the black and the white, so grey became the third base color.

After letting that dry a while, I began painting a "loose" floral design in a range of colors and shapes. You can still see some of the "old look" in the corners and edges - I like the imperfection of this project!

I added in splotches of green "leaves" and a scribble or two. Tomorrow, when this baby is completely dry, I'll likely add spatter, drip and/or pen marks, ala graffiti style. Spray paint anyone? I'll snap a pic when it's done and share with you later....

Last, but not least, I used up the paint left on the palette - into the art journal it went - a bouquet just for you!

See what other AEDMonthers are up too here.

Day 10 (and 8 & 9) - Art Every Day Month

2011-11-10T13:14:00.000-08:00

Ooops. Been slack at posting these past couple of days, but I'm still artifying!

These art journal pages are by NO MEANS finished....just throwing on some layers.....making colorful messes.

I'm loving the mix of papers in my new art journal made by Traci Bunkers! Just look - even braille pages!

And look at the cover! That's Traci Bunker's artwork on the cover (not mine). Check out Traci's site here!

I'll be back tomorrow with more.....meanwhile take a look at other AEDMonthers here!

Day 7 - Art Every Day Month: Even When

2011-11-07T16:39:00.000-08:00

Even when it's not easy,

Even when I struggle to find the time,

Even when my mind is elsewhere,

Even when the pen won't glide across the page,

Even when the watercolor won't flow,

Even then . . . I hold to the commitment, keep on with the daily practice.

Knowing it's teaching me so much more than to draw or to paint.

Find other committed artists and their daily practice here.

Day 6-Art Every Day Month: Hidden Images

2011-11-06T10:20:00.000-08:00

Another cold and rainy day - the second this week. PERFECT for lazing by the fire with the art journal.

I kind of cheated on this one.
The background is a smear of acrylic paint made from "cleaning" off the palette knife weeks ago.
I hate to waste paint, don't you?

Today, hidden in the murky background, I found hints of the images you see now.
I brought them out of hiding using Inktense pencils and oil pastels.
Spooky, huh?

It's such a surprise what lies in wait . . . tribal and ancient.
Could it mean anything?

Is our subconscious placing these figures there or is purely random?

It happens SO often for me, I find it hard to believe it's chance.
I have filled an art journal and done several paintings this way!
What do you think?

Visit other artists participating in Art Every Day Month by going here.

Day 5 - Art Every Day Month: Sunny Day Sketching

2011-11-05T10:16:00.000-07:00

Another day began in the lounge chair, buried under blanket, pup in lap, sketchbook balanced on pup....
It may be sunny, but it is FREEZING today! Fall has officially arrived in Southern California.

This time, inspiration provided by Anthropologie catalog - a trip to Peru - from my armchair!

Ahhh Peru! Don'tcha just wanna? Another destination on the "Bucket List".

Find out what "Art Every Day Month" is all about here.

Day 4 - Art Every Day Month: Rainy Day Sketches

2011-11-04T15:56:00.000-07:00

Nothing like a cold, rainy day to make me wanna curl up under cover, dog in lap, sketchbook balanced atop dog....

Clothing catalogs become my "models" - today's pick? Free People. LOVE their 70's inspired designs!

Balancing my sketchbook on my dog's bony back does make for wonky faced girlie drawings....but I don't mind.

Meet Flea.

Go here to see what Art Every Day Month is all about!

Day 3 - Art Every Day Month: The Excuse

2011-11-04T09:17:00.000-07:00

Hadn't gotten very far into the month long challenge before I blew it! Hahaha!

As you can see by the snapshot, I have an excuse for not creating any art on Day 3 - but a good one I think. It was our annual "girls day out" for the YaYa's! And nothing messes with that.

I took this picture (you can probably tell, I'd already been into the bubbly - the image is a so blurry)! I could not be trusted with a paint brush or sketchbook yesterday, let alone a camera. Forgive me. Heck I even posted THIS a day late. Sheesh.

Today, I get to make up for it! Woo hoo off to the studio!

Go here to see what the Art Every Day Month challenge is all about.

Mystic Art Medicine

2011-11-03T07:02:00.000-07:00

My recent trip to Sedona, AZ yielded many extraordinary gifts. The first came wrapped in a warm, gracious and glowing package called "Cher Lyn".

Cher Lyn is an intuitive painter with whom I had recently become acquainted. She lives and shows her work in Sedona, so a few of us made plans to meet to see her work before our painting retreat began. I was thrilled when Cher Lyn said she'd meet us all at the gallery!!

Cher Lyn's work is incredibly profound......deep, mystical and healing. While her work made an enormous impact on me, the time Cher Lyn spent with us was remarkable. She spent well over an hour in conversation with us. She spoke of her daily dedication to her art - of how it has impacted her life, teaching her many life lessons. We were all deeply moved. Her visible passion reinforced our own longings. In her, we saw that our own calling to make art is true and real. I wish I had recorded the conversation - I don't think she realizes the effect she had on us all.

Cher Lyn told us of one epic work she'd done that took 11 years to complete! She generously shared a book filled with images from that painting combined with her written word......a complete story. This was an art form I'd not seen before - I could've sat with that book for the entire day.

Cher Lyn went on to explain other paintings - a self portrait that evolved through many stages, that also took much time to complete. Most, however, take months, not years, to come to completion. I realized that the hours I typically spend on a painting may not be enough to achieve the depth I want . . . I am still learning.

I hope you'll visit Cher Lyn's site and discover for yourself this gifted artist process. Don't miss a single page-it's filled with wisdom and beauty.

Thank you Cher Lyn - thank you for your time, your generosity and your guidance. I'm truly longing for more!!

******

Photo provided by Lisa Wilson.

Seated left to right are:
Lisa Wilson
Lisa Hofmann
Indigo Carlton
Me
Cher Lyn

It's Art Every Day Month!!

2011-11-02T16:08:00.000-07:00

Today, I found out that November is "Art Every Day Month". This is a project that Leah Piken Kolidas of the blog "Creative Every Day" began 9 years ago! I tingled at the thought of it.....could I really commit to creating every single day this month? I already have a to do list a mile long!

After reading the details of the challenge, I realized that it could be any creative act - painting, journaling, art journaling, writing, photography - anything artistic at all! Well....I'm up for that!!

*****

I began this challenge on Day 2, but realized I had actually done quite a bit of doodling, sketching and the like when I journaled on what was Day 1. That counts, right? Right!

Here's a snippet....way too shy to show you more of my personal journaling. The line is a sentiment those of us in Pixie Campbell's first "SouLodge" came to understand. BTW - Pixie's got SouLodge 2 currently up and running.

DAY 1: Doodling/sketching/morning pages.

*****

Today, I began work on a new painting. One based on an art journal page I did recently. She's a work in progress and will likely show up in various stages throughout this "Art Every Day Month".

Day 2: Work in progress - acrylic and oil pastel on 30"x48" canvas, heavy texture created with joint compound....

*****

I hope you'll consider joining in the fun of "Art Every Day Month".....go here to find more details.

Art Journal Peek

2011-11-02T08:35:00.000-07:00

A Gift For You - My FREE Online Art Journaling Workshop!!

2011-10-24T12:29:00.000-07:00

Last year, I was one of 21 teachers who taught online art journaling workshops in Connie Hozvicka's 21 Secrets. I'm sharing that workshop with you now below (for free)! The instructional video will lead you through a complete start to finish project where you'll create a completely original one of a kind journal.

The second video is a flip through of the journal I created.....I truly hope you'll enjoy creating your own. It's the kind of journal you can use for further "art journaling", as a scrapbook, or as a more "traditional" written journal. It's also a great project to share with the kids in your life. Have fun!

(Oh and there was a PDF to accompany these videos, but for the life of me I can't figure out how to put it here. If you know how, please clue me in! I think you'll be fine without it though - but if you have any questions, I'm here for you.)

The Doodlicious Daybook Flip Thru (play 2nd) from Tracie Hanson on Vimeo.

I Do So Love a GOOD BOOK

2011-10-19T09:02:00.000-07:00

Have you seen what the Queen's calligrapher and team have done?
They've created the first hand written illuminated Bible in 500 years.
I hear there will be a book soon....for now, look at some of these beautiful images and the video of calligrapher, Donald Jackson, discussing the process. Astounding.

A New Way Of Seeing

2011-10-13T14:09:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, I had a play date with my ginormous watercolor pad.....I "troweled" and finger painted on a swirl of cool shades.....and left it at that.

Today, I thought to whip that puppy out and do my favorite art making thang....

which is to locate "found images" within the background. Do you see what I see?

I begin with penciling in the shapes - my favorite being the Stabilo Black or White and Derwent Inktense water soluble pencils.

Soon, water soluble oil pastels or more acrylic paints are added and voila . . .

figures I could never have planned pop out!

Here's another one done today in my smaller art journal.

It's always such a surprise to find what's lurking in the backgrounds. Fantastical, otherworldly creatures appear.

Don't you think this must be good for the brain? Surely it's creating a new neural pathway or two.

I think it's teaching me to find new ways of looking at things, a new way of seeing.

The FEARLESS™ Painting Tribe - Sedona

2011-10-08T15:30:00.000-07:00

How do I begin? By sharing a bit about our time in nature?

With talk of finding balance?

With the sounds of joyous laughter?

With tales of sweetness and sisterhood?

Of dancing (and painting) in the rain?

Oh there was painting on dry land.....

(Photo of me above provided by Indigo Carlton.)

My first painting brought neon creatures out of hiding . . . creatures already there lurking in the thickly colored backgrounds. They needed only a pencil or fine brush to bring them forth.

My next felt deeper, more serious....

I've still much to do on that one - can you see the shapes in the background I'm beginning to bring out with pencil?

(Photo of me above provided by Connie Hozvicka.)

-----------------
About this retreat:

Our FEARLESS™ Painting Tribe met in Sedona on September 29, 2011 for four bliss-FULL days. Our FEARLESS™ leader Connie Hozvicka gathered us together for the first annual Total Alignment Painting Retreat. I had met two of the ladies before, but otherwise none of us had ever met in real life. It is a testament to the kind of online community that Connie creates in her workshops that we were immediately at ease and felt as if we'd known each other for years!

Each day we began our days under cloudless blue skies. Temperatures were desert warm! We hiked each morning in the shadows of the Red Rocks, then painted until dark. Afterwards we enjoyed Yoga Nidra led by Connie, who is nearing completion of her yoga teaching credential.

Incredibly delicious food was prepared by the ever-smiling Hansel Solera, Connie's beloved. (All this really worked up an appetite!) Hansel is also a pro-photographer! The delightful Opal Keen assisted in all things food, hiking and paint related.

My FEARLESS™ Tribe Sisters are (links are there for those who have blogs):

Connie Hozvicka
Lauren Strach
Betsy Canas Garmon
Indigo Carlton
Shauna Meiri
Kim Philips van Buren
Charlie (Shamsi) Pettus
Jennifer Hunteman
Lisa Wilson
Christine Graziano Miner
Natasha Reilly
Lisa Hofmann
Opal Keen

Hansel A. Solera and his beautiful photography can be found here. (If you're nice, he just might cook for you!)

THIS Is What Tribe Looks Like

2011-10-02T22:54:00.000-07:00

JUST returned from a 4 day FEARLESS PAINTING in Sedona with my TRIBE - FEARLESSLY created by our FEARLESS leader and soul painting sista, Connie Hozvicka. I need a little time to process it all - because let me tell you, it was HUGE.

So much more later ..... for now, gonna go scrub off the red rock dust and get some sleep!

Surrender

2011-09-17T07:05:00.000-07:00

This week, I experimented on canvas with a palette knife. I'd never used one before and now I may never not use one again!

I must tell you . . . painting this was super scary. Brushes give me some feeling of control. My inner gremlin was raging through the entire process!

The palette knife is truly unpredictable . . . and the paint so thick, I must really slow down, allowing the paint to dry between layers or it becomes a big smeary mess!

This one had me declaring out loud to my studio-mate (and Mom) that, "I'm giving myself permission to really *&%@# this one up!"

The little guy on the easel below is the start of my second attempt....we'll see how it goes. Right now, not so well. Sigh.

When I return to it in a day or two, I'll take a few deep breaths and leap.

You see, painting is never really about painting, for me anyway. No. It's continually about surrender.

For Faerian

2011-09-13T15:37:00.000-07:00

This little post is just for Faerian, my muse on the other side of the world.

I thought about you the entire time I painted.

This piece is simply called "Maeve" . . . after a mutual friend of ours.

You Really Can't Plan This Stuff

2011-09-09T15:36:00.000-07:00

You really can't plan this stuff, "intuitive painting", that is.

That's kind of the point. To be in the present moment, unplanned....

but always listening . . . listening to what wants to happen next on the canvas or paper. Letting go . . . summoning creative abandon. Enjoying the process, free from worries about the end result.

It's really cool when I can drop down into that "zone" - which is definitely not all the time for me. I breathe through it, slow WAY down, try not to analyze. (Which doesn't come easy for a girl who's a bit of a science geek. Sigh. But it is happening more often.)

I'm beyond fortunate to be part of an online growing tribe of painters, one founded by Connie Hozvicka. We remind each other how to do this stuff. We remind each other why we do this stuff. This circle of amazing women artists is another thing I couldn't have planned. It spontaneously grew out of our conversations and shared experiences in Connie's classes.

In 20 days, I'll be meeting a dozen of these women in real life. We are gathering to paint, hike and do yoga in the shadow of the Red Rocks of Sedona, Arizona. This creative sisterhood of women is traveling from (literally) around the world! Such is the magic of the internet . . . I can hardly wait!!

Until then, I continue painting everything I can get my hands on . . .

Spreading out my art supplies in my little home studio and my big ole warehouse studio too.

I'll keep "cleaning my brushes and palettes" off on my art journals, prepping backgrounds for writing I'll do some day . . . cause for now, I've got another canvas on the easel.

Messy Is Good

2011-09-01T19:27:00.000-07:00

When the pages take an hour or two to dry, that's a GOOD thing.....

When you have to shoo your dog out of the area so you can add some spray paint, I say that's real GOOD....

When the pages get so thick, they almost feel like a heavy plastic tarp, that too is GOOD....

And when one is still in it's baby stages and has many layers to go....well..... that's tomorrow.

Sanctuary

2011-08-31T10:06:00.000-07:00

A gift for my art journal . . .

a gift from our new friend, egret.

A gift left for us on the hills of this sanctuary.

I'd nearly forgotten how much I loved walking there - especially on a cloud covered morning.

It's been far too long since I visited this sanctuary for birds . . . this sanctuary for me.

After a walk there, I feel a deep sense of peace and stillness, which I carry with me all day . . .

and that leaves me with a smile on my face.

My Soul Art® Journey

2011-08-28T17:25:00.000-07:00

Recently, I decided to sign up for the Soul Art® Certification program. You can visit this site to learn more about Soul Art® if you're interested, but I'll share pieces of my own journey with you here as I progress over the next couple of months. When I've completed the program, I'll be certified to lead others through the process.

This is a photo of my first assignment. The result is a large piece of art - but the total process is truly a journey of the soul!

Afterwards, I cleaned up the giant mess I had made in my little home studio and hung her front and center.

My boy, Flea, approves!

Scenes From The Studio

2011-08-11T15:19:00.000-07:00

Spending hours each day in the studio this week.

Finished this one just today . . . She makes me happy.

I've got a fire in the belly since spending time with the master's works housed at SFMOMA. I went with my friend, and FEARLESS™ Painting teacher, Connie. (Seriously, have you taken one of her online classes yet? You just gotta.)

Since I'm practically living there, I thought I'd share a few scenes from the studio . . .

And just because I never have, I'm showing some of my Mom's paintings too . . . we share our studio space.

These 3 little gems are a bit of her recent work.

Isn't it rich? She's been painting for a very long time. (I like to think her talent will rub off on me.)

Here she is putting a few finishing touches on a piece.

And her side of the studio -

I know, we're both kind of neat that way....even when flingin' paint.

Can you guess my favorite color (lately)? Swoon. I'm so in love with Golden's metallics....second best is a glitter flecked graphite (but I just can't remember the name.)

Today, I even took the time to sort all my paints - I was positive I was missing some needed colors. Uh...guess not. (Ka-ching!) Well, now I know I got some for the home studio, some for the big studio. (Okay...I got doubles. Damn. I do love me a trip to the art store - as if you couldn't tell.)

This little orange haired baby, has now morphed into this....but she's FAR from finished.

(Sigh...why do I show you works in progress? I think it's just because painting makes me so happy and I want you to be happy too. Doesn't making art make you happy? It's not just me, is it?)

Here's some art journaling supplies....

I must confess, the art journaling has really suffered because I've become so drawn to the canvas. Oh well, ya can't do it all. Although I do try.

Here's another confession . . . here's what sometimes comes after a long day at the studio. (Shhhhhh......Don't rat me out. I'm sure I paint off the calories.)

Moody Girls and a Painting in Progress

2011-08-09T18:52:00.001-07:00

Here's what shows up in my sketch book while waiting in the airport....

it's not all pretty I tell ya.

But none of these moody girls take up more than 2 inches, so I let them have their space.

And here's what's happening on the easel....

she's in need of some jewelry, don't you think?

Can't Stay Away

2011-08-04T07:41:00.000-07:00

Think my little summer break from the internet is over.

Feeling filled up . . . ready to emerge from the cocoon.

Have you taken some time for yourself this summer?

There's still time, ya know.

Time for parks or beaches or swimming.

Time for lingering with your sketchbook . . . time for play . . .

time for you.

Summer Break

2011-06-28T20:55:00.000-07:00

Hello lovely ones!

Just a quick note to tell ya what I'm up to. I've decided to take a summertime break from blogging through July (maybe even August - OMG).

Feeling the need for a little un-plug! I'll be taking this time to do some deep internal listening - a rejuvenation of mind, body and soul - a summer of unbridled joy, love and art-making. Remember our summer breaks as kids? Wasn't it divine?

I know I'll return with oodles to share, including plans for new adventures! But this is not without fear of losing touch with you, I must confess. Know I'm thinking of you and hoping your summer brings a soul-break of your own filled with fun, laughter and a few laps 'round a cool blue pool!

XOXO!

A Day In A Painter's Life

2011-06-18T18:45:00.000-07:00

This is how it sometimes happens . . .

Just as you're fully intending to spend the day painting something based on this....

up pops THIS! The dreaded inner meanie . . . the demon robbing me of my creative bliss. My gremlin.

My beginning strokes on canvas were so horrid!
(Wait! Is this only my gremlin speaking?)
Well, I won't dare show you THAT!

In quiet desperation, I literally fell to my knees, spreading all my supplies in a large circle around me. I began spreading paints on a large sheet of watercolor - still the gremlin growled.

So onto the smaller palette of my art journal, where I let him speak to me.

Sometimes it's the only thing you can do - just let him have his say.

A guy just needs a little space - to know I'm listening.....

Only then will he be silenced . . .

and I can begin again.

This, That & Another

2011-06-16T08:06:00.000-07:00

YOUR Blooming Life

2011-06-14T13:53:00.000-07:00

Today, I'm featured on the Cosmic Cowgirls Online Magazine, where I'll be a quarterly contributor. Hope you'll stop by and take a peek at the article and the rest of the magazine!! Also - you can subscribe and received all sorts of inspiring creative juiciness right in your mailbox!!

Here's the link where you'll find my introductory article!

How ya like me now?

2011-06-11T21:25:00.000-07:00

The Colors of Love

2011-06-07T14:31:00.000-07:00

A Blessing

2011-06-04T08:00:00.000-07:00

May you live in the neighborhood of wonder . . .

May you have the courage to befriend your eternal longing . . .

May you take the time to celebrate the quiet miracles that seek no attention . . .

May you arise each day with a voice of blessing whispering in your heart that something good is going to happen . . .

May there be kindness in your gaze when you look within . . .

May the places of darkness within you be turned to the light . . .

May you know that absence is full of tender presence
and that nothing is ever lost or forgotten.

-John O'Donohue

"Room to Bloom" with Connie Hozvicka!

2011-06-02T05:00:00.000-07:00

Room To Bloom from Connie Hozvicka on Vimeo.

"Room to Bloom" with Lisa Dieken!

2011-05-31T05:00:00.000-07:00

Welcome to my blog series "Room to Bloom"! Some amazing women from around the world will be sharing their personal creative spaces with us. No matter if our space is desk in a corner of our kitchen or a spacious loft studio, we all need room to bloom, don't you think? I know you'll find these sanctuaries as inspiring as I do.

Welcome Lisa Dieken today! I've "known" Lisa now for sometime (in the internet and phone call sense)....she and I have taken several online classes together and I can tell you, she is a wise and gentle soul. I know you'll "see" that too as she explains the way she takes her studio with her into the wilderness on her regular hikes. Now that's "room to bloom"!

***************

Right now my indoor creative space is a corner of a room. I use a painter's cloth on the floor, left over from when used to paint interiors and exteriors of homes. I claimed my "room to bloom" many years ago when I started drawing classes. It was a fairly large space through two moves. It was going to be large where I'm living now, but unfortunately it didn't work out as planned.

I also paint outside sometimes and have been known to do a bit of drawing/painting while on a hike. (My subject doesn't necessarily come from where I'm sitting, though it might.) The wilderness is one giant studio!

Oh! I can't leave out "my studio", the sidewalk! It is great fun to play with sidewalk chalk. This is one form of spontaneous/intuitive drawing for me.

I typically create in silence, though sometimes have music playing. My favorite time to work is... when I work! I usually create in small time frames, I'm not sure why. So I'll paint for awhile, then perhaps do some work for my business, then paint a bit more.

(A work in progress)

Space is a problem when I'm inside. I just make the best of it. Sometimes I sit on the floor, sometimes I use an easel, sometimes I use a small fold-away table. Like I mentioned before, I've taken larger canvases outside and sometimes I take art supplies on the trail with me. Not a problem with space there, except space to carry the art supplies!

Storage is also a problem especially for things that need temperature control, like paints and glues. I guess the solution here is that I have to be choosy in what I buy! Claiming the time can also be a problem, but I have no one but myself to blame for that! The solution? Be gentle with myself. Remind myself that my life experience goes incredibly more smoothly when I take the time to create. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't.

(Detail of a work in progress)

My future dream studio will be a large space with large windows looking out into the trees and meadows, views of the mountains off in the distance and a stream nearby. There will be plenty of storage, lots of table space and easel space, many large and small plants. For some reason I see really large Incan-type pottery on shelves. And of course you can't have a studio without a large art sink!

Outside is wilderness. There are places to sit and meditate, to listen to the stream and the wind, to listen and watch the birds and other wildlife. There is a place outside to create if I feel the desire. There is a big door to move large items in and out, a small kitchen for tea and snacks and a cozy indoor sitting area with a wood stove. Art supplies are abundant and there may even be a pottery wheel and kiln. It's one big creative playground in a wilderness haven! Maybe I'll invite all of you to come join me sometime!

I'm a multiple-media artist, photographer, shamanic practitioner, Certified Kaizen-Muse Creativity Coach(tm), avid hiker, nature goddess. I walk between the physical and spiritual worlds for my own healing and for the healing of others.

Some of the benefits that have resulted from working with me: greater access to one's creativity and connection to Source, increased sense of well-being, healing on a deep level, inner peace, vibrancy, balance and strengthening one's foundation, opening of the heart, being in the flow, experiencing insights and inspiration. I work with clients around the globe offering gentle one-on-one sessions (including soul retrieval) and mentorships as well as offering online classes.

Lisa's business website is here.

Lisa's inspiring blog is here.

"Room to Bloom" with Jennifer Schildknecht!

2011-05-29T05:00:00.000-07:00

Welcome to my blog series "Room to Bloom"! Some amazing women from around the world will be sharing their personal creative spaces with us. No matter if our space is desk in a corner of our kitchen or a spacious loft studio, we all need room to bloom, don't you think? I know you'll find these sanctuaries as inspiring as I do.

Today, we're treated to a peek inside Jennifer Schildknecht's studio in progress! She's got quite an inspiring story to tell....we often do our creative work in whatever space we can eeek out - but I LOVE a woman who seizes the opportunity for more "room to bloom" when it presents itself! This is a woman who knows what she wants AND deserves! Take a looksy.....

***************

The story of my studio is one of great longing, of patience…..of great anger and resentment, followed by a deep letting go and allowing.

Like so many of you, I worked at the kitchen table for years. Living in cramped quarters, and with a large family, it seemed there was no other choice. Supplies were stored in every nook and cranny, as well as in the attic, and, bless my family, we rarely got to eat at the table when Mom was in a creative frenzy.

(Hannah Lou and Maybelline join me in creative mess-making.)

Ah, but then one by one, the children grew up and started to move away from home. “This is it”, I thought, “This is my opportunity!”.

I painted Will’s upstairs room a deep pink, all cozy and comforting, claiming it as my own and insuring he’d never want to return to it.

(A “womb of my own”, in a more orderly moment.)

My husband (aka The Canadian), awesome thrifter that he is, scrounged furniture for my new space---a huge old fashioned teacher-style oak desk, office furniture including tables, credenzas and cabinets, and probably the most amazing piece--- a lighted plexiglass architects’ table with adjustable height and tilt. Oh baby!

(The pride of my workspace, the architects’ table.)

Sadly, it was no time at all until my space was filled with “stuff” (the attic was still full, mind you) and I was choked out. I couldn’t work there.

Lest you jump to the conclusion that I’m just spoiled or ungrateful, let me explain.

I grew up in a tiny, cramped house, with a shoebox sized room….I can only surmise that’s where the burning need for wide open spaces came from.

When I designed the house we live in, I made sure it had as few walls as possible, yet I often still feel confined.

(Another rare glimpse of semi-order.)

About the same time I moved into the “womb of my own”, the Canadian got himself a photography studio in a nearby town. Were there hard feelings? You’d better believe it!

I’d waited my entire life for a place of my own where I could be free to sprawl and create!

He worked long arduous hours re-constructing his space, and spent money we did not have to make it quite cushy, while my little room began to squeeze the life out of me.

I’ve dealt with chronic illness my entire life, but during this time I became almost incapacitated, not able to even get up the stairs to my little pink room. Are you sensing there’s a great deal more to this story? Indeed, but I’ll save that for another time.

The Canadian took on another studio space next door to his photography studio, this one used for other artists to come in and engage in figure drawing. I was, of course, welcome to come in and make use of this studio anytime I wanted, but it was up not just one, but two long steep flights of stairs. I did occasionally use it, but the resentment that I felt each time I was there took all the pleasure out of it.

(Fringe Collective Studio…it never felt it could be “my own”.)

Over the past year, I’ve learned that it’s ok for me to have desires for myself, and to have a voice of my own….to express it, often quite loudly. I’ve realized that I deserve to have my needs met; I deserve a place of my own to work in as I choose.

Recently the space across the hall from the Canadian’s studios became available. It is what I’ve often dreamed of…wide open space, oozing character and possibility! The 8 foot tall arched windows make my heart sing.

It needs some work, though I plan to leave the cracked plaster and the scorched beams.

The Canadian is busting some butt, extending the walls all the way up, and building an awesome loft for me! I’ve even scrounged a sexy red sofa for myself.

(Daunting work ahead, but oh, such character!)

(The beginnings of my 7’x12’ loft (with 4’ of storage behind it. Can you say “OH BABY!”)

This space is also situated up two long, steep flights of stairs, but as I feel the resentment leave me and a feeling of contentment and “YES, I deserve this” start to replace it, the pain is miraculously ebbing away. I find strength and energy I’ve not experienced in a number of years, energy to create starting to flow in.

I’m learning how to say YES….and that it’s perfectly ok for me to say YES, to boldly claim what the Universe wants to give me as my own.

You can bet that I’ll be posting more photos on my blog as we make progress on this project! Watch for lots of color, a fun ceiling treatment, a paper (YES, I said PAPER) floor treatment and maybe even a swing….. Watch as Moon Mama becomes HERSELF and comes into her own!

Jennifer Schildknecht, also known as Moon Mama, is a healer, an artist, a writer, a mama and a wife, not necessarily in that order.

Jennifer’s mantra for the last two years has been “Yes I Can!”; a whole lot of “no you can’t”, has recently shaped it into a resounding “JUST WATCH ME!”

Consider this fair warning.

Jennifer’s creative adventures are blogged here.

You can find some of her creations here.

Her health mis-adventures are hashed over here.

If you want to find Jennifer, she’s either playing in the Over the Moon studio or out in the hammock under a canopy of trees.

"Room to Bloom" with Amanda!

2011-05-27T05:00:00.000-07:00

"Room to Bloom" with Jennifer H!

2011-05-25T05:00:00.000-07:00

"Room to Bloom" with Tracy Carlton!

2011-05-23T05:00:00.000-07:00

Welcome to my blog series "Room to Bloom"! Some amazing women from around the world will be sharing their personal creative spaces with us. No matter if our space is desk in a corner of our kitchen or a spacious loft studio, we all need room to bloom, don't you think? I know you'll find these sanctuaries as inspiring as I do.

Today's guest is the delightful Tracy Carlton! Tracy and I "met" online while taking classes with Connie of Dirty Footprints Studio. Although we've not yet met in "real life", you can feel her sweetness, energy and enthusiasm through the cosmic airwaves of the internet. We call ourselves "The Tracy/ie's" and we've much in common as we've both claimed our "room to bloom" and our newish title of "artist". I think you'll be inspired by the space - square footage AND heart space - she's taken to pursue her creative yearnings...enjoy!

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My creative space is quite small. I share a small cabin in the woods of northern California with my husband, 6 year old son, and three cats. I have a lovely alcove I carved out just for me (after quite a few years of saying we had no space!), but alas, it is just too cramped for creating in that space ~ low A-frame ceilings, don't you know. But my altar is in this space, so I still make time to come and sit and let the silence fill me up. I also have a table and hassock filled to the brim with more supplies downstairs, and I take over the kitchen table as often as I can. If only we didn't have to eat...

My ritual for painting, which helps me to set intention, and to be mindful of the moment, includes lighting a candle, lighting some Nag Champa incense, turn on my Africa playlist on itunes, and making a cup of Earl Grey tea. Even in warm weather, I just love my Earl Grey tea! There is something so very satisfying about these little things. Sometimes I just jump in and paint, more likely when others are home, but as often as I can, I try to set the mood with my ritual!

I have one cat in particular who would love to be right on top of the table painting with me. I probably should always consider myself a mixed media artist, my paintings undoubtedly include cat hair. (no picture tho!)

Are there challenges to painting? Ha! Did I mention the A-frame cabin, the 6 year old, the cats... oh, wait, I did! I also work 30 hours a week. So, yes, carving out a space has taken much fortitude and persistence. Also, it has meant painting in front of my family, feeling tender and exposed as I make my way and claim the word "artist" for myself. And because of the space constraints, there have been many times where it's just so much easier to sit in front of the computer rather than pull all my materials out to get creating. But, I keep at it. I keep reminding myself how much I love it. How good it makes me feel. And I know that I have truly claimed this for myself, I have over come lots of excuses and obstacles (external and internal) to make it happen.

My future dream studio will be down a short path from my house. It will be hand-built out of cob (earth/clay) painted in lots of fun earth inspired colors and specks of mica that sparkle in the sun, with huge south facing windows with a view of gardens, trees, and a pond or creek. It will be cozy, with a wood burning stove for winter, and lots of nooks and crannies for books, supplies, and treats. It will have a big comfy bed, a large over-stuffed chair, and lots of room for my cats to keep me company. It will have an arbor out front with grape vines and a hammock between the posts. Delicious smelling flowers will grow all around so on summer days I can throw open the windows and be inspired by their beauty as well as their scent.

My space is what it is right now. I know that I waited for many years for a bigger space. Or for more time. Or for better supplies. But I could wait no longer. This is the space I have now. I make the best of it and remember to see the beauty of having my loving, and very supportive family so close by as I create. I know too, that I am setting a good example for my son, who loves to break out his art supplies right along side me from time to time. Seeing me embrace what I love, gives him full permission to do the same, whether it be painting, or legos.

Tracy Carlton is a dreamer and a risk taker. She takes life seriously but knows the importance of silliness and play. She has been painting on and off for only the past few years, but now is proud to call herself an artist. You can find her blogging here. She knows not where this creative path will take her, but has faith that it will be a glorious adventure the whole while.

"Room to Bloom" with Leonie Allan!

2011-05-21T05:00:00.000-07:00

"Room to Bloom" with Kim Candlish!

2011-05-19T05:00:00.000-07:00

"Room to Bloom" with Tami Chacon!

2011-05-17T05:00:00.001-07:00

Welcome to my blog series "Room to Bloom"! Some amazing women from around the world will be sharing their personal creative spaces with us. No matter if our space is desk in a corner of our kitchen or a spacious loft studio, we all need room to bloom, don't you think? I know you'll find these sanctuaries as inspiring as I do.

Today's guest is Tami Chacon. Tami's claimed a space right in the front room of her home - bold, huh? Tami says she is a "dreamer of dreams" - well, I think she's living them too! Take a peeksy at her inspiring space below - enjoy!

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If you had asked me ten years ago if I was creative, I would have said no way. Growing up, I never felt I was 'artisitic'. I was musical and pursued music in college years and year ago. But as for art - that wasn't me. I never felt I could even doodle.

I married, had two children. At one point I was a Girl Scout leader and I needed to help my troops create arts and crafts. I enjoyed creating those little items. I never felt artistic tho'.

Then, I went thru a really dark time about eight years ago. During that darkness, I felt a need to play with decorative papers and such. I had an overwhelming desire to play with color and patterns. I filled several journals with this playing. I had no idea that I was art journaling! But that art journaling saved me in more ways than one.

I discovered magazines at the bookstore that showed women creating. I discovered women online that had these blogs that spoke to me. Then I found an online class that taught how to paint backgrounds. I was completely hooked.

I stumbled onto Connie's website and loved her journaling videos. Took her first Art Journaling class, which led to BIG. Thru all of this I've continued to explore color, paint, paper, texture, pattern. I've discovered I am artistic. My artisitic voice, my style is evolving each day. I am happiest at my art table with time on my hands.

My creative space has evolved over the last few years. It all started with the dining room table - I would spread out my small supply of 'art stuff' and play if and when I had the time. Eventually I moved a book case by the table and began storing more 'stuff'. Often, we wouldn't be able to eat dinner at the big table because I would have a project spread out. I have this large keyboard that was taking up space in the living area near the front door. My husband built a table to go over the keyboard and I had this wonderful flat surface to actually work on!! I've now claimed the front area as my 'studio'.

The computer, several book cases and cabinets store all my goodies. If need be, I put cardboard on the wall in the dining area for my "BIG" paintings. The walls of the house were off white when I began my exploration of art - now they are a bright yummy yellow in the studio area and a beautiful orange in the den with one red wall! Color has brought life into the house! My art has brought me to myself.

Before creating, I take a moment to center myself. It may be a few deep breaths and a giving of thanks or it may be time spent on the yoga mat. I love to work with music and a candle lit when the house is empty of teenagers and noise. This does not occur very often! So, I get up each morning and do something in my studio. It may just be to throw some paint on a journal page as a background, or flip thru old journals.

On a good morning I have time to sit and be and paint. I cherish those mornings. Last weekend I had the luxury of a whole day to myself. It was heavenly. Music is one of my favorite inspirations. I spent the day listening to my favorite music and painted. My dreams play a big part in my journaling and art. I find myself revisiting themes from my dreams when I create.

There are many challenges to claiming my "room to bloom" - time and space being the most difficult. Of course, there is never enough time . . . the day job, and all those other responsibilities don't leave me near enough time to create - but the time I do spend is time I cherish.

I live in a small house with my husband, two daughters, my mom, and various animals. Seems there is always an interruption of some sort. And the space for my studio is right in the center of everything. The front door is directly in front of my easel. My solution is to spend time early in the morning or late at night when there aren't as many interruptions. When we have company visiting I often feel the need to put away my current pieces that I'm not ready to share. I'm still quite shy about sharing my art with people.

As for my "future dream studio", I have a little voice that whispers of a space, a wide-open space with tons of room to spread out. I envision several working areas that I could leave my work out on and then go from piece to piece as I am inspired. And I would LOVE to have a space to share with others - a working studio/shop that would encourage others to create and dream. I drive by real estate that is available and picture myself in it.

Right now, my studio space is usually quite cluttered and messy. It can get quite overwhelming. I will reach a point where I can't stand it anymore and start sorting the clutter, freeing up space, and then I find I have a rush of creativity because of the clean space.

I am a woman living as fully as I can - living life's questions into the answers. Searching, questioning, learning, loving, laughing and along the way discovering the colors of life. A dreamer of dreams - wishing and hoping each new day brings more color into the world.

Visit Tami's Blog
and Tami's Etsy Shop!

"Room to Bloom" with Shiloh Sophia McCloud!

2011-05-15T05:00:00.000-07:00

Welcome to my blog series "Room to Bloom"! Some amazing women from around the world will be sharing their personal creative spaces with us. No matter if our space is desk in a corner of our kitchen or a spacious loft studio, we all need room to bloom, don't you think? I know you'll find these sanctuaries as inspiring as I do.

Today's guest is Shiloh Sophia McCloud. Shiloh is very special to me. It was through her six month online painting and writing mentorship, called "Leading a Legendary Life", that I first put a paint loaded brush to canvas. I will never forget that class....I will never forget her. I know you will enjoy these glimpses into her home studio....from it come iconic images of beauty, reverence and symbolism that inspire women all over the world to claim their own "room to bloom".

Let's settle in for some tea with Shiloh...

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It’s Teatime in the "Red Thread Cafe Studio" with Shiloh Sophia

Teatime at the "Red Thread Cafe Studio" happens first thing in the morning, when I am still in my nightgown and slippers. I am inviting you to join me right now. Even if you are still in your pajamas, come on over. I have the butter and jam and the yummiest tea this side of China.

I know it is early and there are so many other things to do --- but art is so much more important than we even know. We deserve to create. Come now, when the paintbrushes are ready to sing their morning jig. “Pick me, pick me" calls the paint. I am sorry, I won’t be cleaning up first. Hope you don’t mind.

The studio is still recovering from painting my last show and there is one thing you need to know about having a studio…don’t clean it up before you begin creating. That is a no-no. Unless it is part of your creative process of course. 

When you get here the candles will be lit and lively music will be playing, though the mood is sweet and quiet at the same time. My studio is in my dining room. I had a whole room to myself, which I loved. But somehow I wasn’t creating in there…so I moved to the dining room and it stays set up all the time.

I paint in a tiny corner off the kitchen and don’t take up much room. Not much is needed, you just have to claim it. And while making chicken and mashed potatoes, I have been known to stop and add a few strokes here and there since it is right there. The hardest part is to get back to the dinner. If you add wine to the occasion you might find yourself telling your family to
serve themselves, dinner is in the oven.

Do you have a space set up? Maybe the humbleness of mine will inspire you! It is rich with color and icon and light, but humble in that everyone walks through it and that we eat dinner amongst the paint tubes. Rather romantic don’t you think?

You will see there are little altars everywhere to inspire me and hold the energy. I love to paint Madonnas and weave red thread, sequins, glitter and love together onto my creations. Yes when I paint, I often listen to chanting like on the Hildegard or Wailin’ Jenny’s or Buena Vista Social club stations (on Pandora) – it just depends on my mood. Most of all I make an effort not to think about anything else when I first approach my studio each morning.

Are you ready for some of that tea now? I have the brushes and glitter. Bring your ideas…oh yes, and you will meet Santiago the black gato who rides on my shoulders while I paint…

One day I should like to have a grand studio – not very different than so many other artists I have heard. Yes, on the beach with white sand at my doorstep. A whole side of the building opens up to the sea…light everywhere and lots of plants. Many easels with projects going. A bead station, glitter station, writing desk, sewing table, and collage table as well --- so I can just go where I am drawn. A warm breeze blows through, and then after my morning tea, I take a dip in the ocean and let the silky fish who nibble my toes inspire my next work of art. And if you decided to come for tea on that day…can you bring the pina colada mix in case we paint late into the afternoon…

Shiloh Sophia is a visionary artist and teacher living in the vineyard lined hills of Northern California. Her work is dedicated to providing images of beauty and inspiration that invite us to see what is possible for our lives. Her paintings and drawings present a moment of peace, of power, of possibility and encourage us towards our own dreams.

Owning galleries and painting has been her full time gig for over fifteen years. She founded a school for women and girls called Cosmic Cowgirls University, which is also a woman owned company, and creative community. Shiloh coaches artists and visionaries and has a certification program teaching artists and practitioners to teach the Color of Woman - Intentional Creativity Method.

She and the CCU staff teach courses on topics including painting as a path of transformation, Red Thread circle leadership courses and visionary business from a feminine perspective. Shiloh is ongoingly creating journals and books - at least three at a time – and you can find her creativity journals at many independent bookstores in the US. You will find her almost every morning painting in her nightgown while she sips tea in her red thread café studio with her rascaly black kitty Santiago.

Shiloh's Website

Shiloh's Blog

Cosmic Cowgirls University

“Each painting is a prayer. An icon of Love. An altar of hope.”
– Shiloh Sophia

"Room to Bloom" with Michelle LaPoint Rydell!

2011-05-13T00:00:00.000-07:00

Welcome to my blog series "Room to Bloom"! Some amazing women from around the world will be sharing their personal creative spaces with us. No matter if our space is desk in a corner of our kitchen or a spacious loft studio, we all need room to bloom, don't you think? I know you'll find these sanctuaries as inspiring as I do.

Today's guest is Michelle LaPoint Rydell - wait until you see her colorful space. It's dreamy!

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I've always tried to carve out a little space to create wherever I've lived - (a corner of the livingroom or a closet), but it wasn't until I got married in 2007, that my dream of having my own studio came to life. My new hubby Michael insisted that I claim a room for my very own, and I'm eternally grateful to him for that! I love to do art journaling, painting and scrapbooking; and now I have a place for everything! I'm so excited to share my little happy space with you today!

Keep in mind my room doesn't always look this neat! HA. I need to have my area cleaned up before I begin a new project or a traffic jam starts in my head! But when I get going, things are flying everywhere! It totally looks like a hurricane hit!!! Then I clean it up again and start all over. It's a never ending cycle!

This is my desk area and inspiration wall. It's where I do my day job, and my personal computing with my iMac at night (you can just barely see my white mouse on the bottom right of the photo). This area is filled with my own artwork as well as treasured gifts from artist friends. I also keep my beloved tape collection on this desk - one dispenser for colored masking tapes, and one for washi tape (can't get enough of that stuff!) In the middle of the wall is where I put my latest project to photograph it for my blog.

Moving to the right you can see my personal computer area on the left and my paint desk on the right. The big painting is part of my new "Fearless Painting" art journal, which I started as part of the 21 Secrets Workshops- it's the first time I've gone that big with a journal (18x24"), I'm having a lot of fun with it!

Here is another angle of the same area. You can see my little friend Johnny (also known as the Johnmeister) under the desk taking a snooze in his cat tube. He loves that thing. The wall of Ikea cubes is where I keep all of my art supplies. The boxes along the top row, each hold a Scrapbook kit from the various clubs I have belonged to. The rest of the cubes hold all of my other various supplies and tools. Everything needs to have a spot or I would never find it! My little red table is a new addition, and I just love it because it affords me a spot to spread out; and also because it's so mobile. I love to get down on the floor and create with Willie and Johnny by my side, and I can just roll the table out of the way to do that.

Here you can see the opposite wall from my paint desk area. My other buddy Willie is relaxing on the chair. I call him the carmelly-colored fluffball. He rarely leaves my side. The green crocheted throw was handmade by my mom, and my sister Renee made the polka-dot pillow. To the left of the entertainment center you can see a big roll of kraft paper, which is from my hubby's mill. I love having reminders of the people I love nearby. The red tin sitting on top of the paper roll is filled with catnip and cat toys - a must have for our artroom!!! The entertainment center holds my scrapbooks and completed art journals, and also bins with more supplies.

I love perusing thrift stores, not only for collage supplies, but for unique ways to store them! Here's an example of one of my favorite finds. It's an old wig box from the 60s, which I keep stuffed full of bubble wrap for painting with!

When it comes to art journaling, I believe in experimenting. I love to try new types of journals, new binding techniques, new themes and styles. This is a photo of some of my completed journals. They are all different but they still all feel like "me," and I love that.

Here are a few of my recent journal pages...

Bio:
I live in Minnesota with my hubby Michael and our two cats Willie and Johnny. I love to experiment and believe that the best art comes from letting go and just playing. Along with art journaling, I enjoy painting, mixed media collage and scrapbooking. Music is a huge source of inspiration for me, and being a teenager in the 1970's, I'm also partial to all things with a retro-groovy kind of vibe!

I hope you will come and visit me at my blog: Inspiration Everywhere. I also run a challenge blog called Scrapping the Music. Come on by and say hi! I'd love to see you!

Speaking of . . .

2011-05-12T12:34:00.000-07:00

Speaking of incredible studios....check this out!

"Room to Bloom" with Jane Davenport!

2011-05-11T00:00:00.000-07:00

Before the Writing

2011-05-10T08:32:00.000-07:00

Before the writing, comes the background....which I must admit is my favorite part of the art journaling process.

Always wanting to do that way more than the writing part.

Love to make my "tiny little paintings" - books full of them!

Knocking out a little creative act in 15 minutes or so gives me great joy.

A little something to keep coming back to . . .

By the way, I hope you'll keep coming back. To here I mean, because something special is on the verge of blooming! I've asked some very creative women from around the world to share their art making sanctuaries with us . . . their "Room to Bloom"! We all need that, don't you agree?

Over the month of May, we'll be invited into their private creative spaces and see where it's all done! Hope you'll drop back in!

Work Work Work Work Work

2011-05-05T10:00:00.000-07:00

I do so love my "work" - mostly because my "work" has become play.

That is writing, painting, journaling, dreaming, scheming....it's all part of my job description! Ain't I lucky? Yeah. I know . . . and I am truly grateful.

I've been a little quiet cause ya see, I've been off selling my book (have you seen my book?) at parties! Parties, I tell ya! So, I've not been 'round much.

And when I am around, I'm likely playing in my art journals . . . stretching my wings.

Dreaming in my notebook....

adding another layer to a painting in progress . . .

Even conjuring up a little something extra special - just for YOU!
That's right! Details coming soon about "Room to Bloom", my blog series blooming with amazing art goddesses and their colorful creative spaces! Cannot wait to share more, but have to hold back just a little longer!

Stay tuned!

A Weekend With John

2011-04-30T16:37:00.001-07:00

Snap.

2011-04-18T13:30:00.000-07:00

I made a big decision . . . one that's been haunting me for a very long time. I destroyed a HUGE collection of journals I've kept. 15 YEARS WORTH!

You see, over the years, I've moved several times and have been toting around taped up/booby trapped boxes full! I NEVER EVER read my old journals, so why was I continuing to carry this "psychic baggage"? It had all become so "heavy". With my 50th birthday quickly approaching, I felt the increasing need to let go. Time to shed the past, make room for the new.

I toyed with the idea of a birthday beach bonfire of diaries! Does seem a proper way to dispose of the old books. I discussed it with friends . . . I droned endlessly with my husband. I tossed. I turned.

Then, on Thursday, I received a timely piece of mail . . . a postcard advertising a "neighborhood shredding event" at a local real estate office. (A real estate office I'd once been employed by while deciding my future work. Ha! That's a whole other Oprah!)

Snap. The decision was made. A shredder would neatly dispose of my journals. Friday morning was spent ripping pages from past diaries. I tried not to look. If I stopped . . . if I read any of it, I'd surely abandon the whole project. And I couldn't. My decision was firm. I was releasing the past.

It took just over an hour to tear apart my books. Snippets of my life passed quickly before my eyes. The good, the bad and the ugly. I relived fun days spent with friends and family. I saw days spent yearning for love - the day I found it - the day I married him. I smiled through entries of successes - like when I quit smoking many years ago. I cried through sadnesses - like the day I lost a dear animal companion. I noticed various repetitive bitchings and whinings. On I went, ripping . . . tearing . . . while vowing not to repeat these same bitchings/whinings in future tomes.

Saturday morning, I drove the block to the shredding event. All my diary's pages now reduced to two boxes. I opened my trunk. I was instructed to unceremoniously pour it into a waiting bin. I could then watch as it was shredded and be sure that it was gone for good.

As the beige bin was tipped into the shredder, a friendly past real estate co-worker approached, arms open wide. She hugged me, excitedly asking, "So what are you doing now?". I told her of my new life as an artist and author. I told her as I watched my old life disappear into the giant metal jaws of a commercial shredder. And it was done. Gone.

I don't regret my decision, but I suppose it has taken me these couple of days to process. Perhaps I'm still processing, for I now want to change how I chronicle my life. Shall I continue my habit of keeping a written journal? If so, will I then repeat the same writing, collecting and disposing of journals? Does that really work for me any more?

Will I give myself over solely to art journaling - an art form that I don't feel a need to hide away or dispose of? But one that requires more time and commitment than keeping a regular written journal. And I do like to write daily.

Or shall I now combine my sketching with writing - this kind of "art journaling" is certainly quicker/cleaner to create. More writing could be easily incorporated into the sketchbooks. I find I'm leaning in this direction - we'll see what my fifth decade brings!

Sedona Smiles

2011-04-13T07:19:00.000-07:00

He said, "You've not stopped smiling since we got here."

It was true. I do LOVE me some Sedona.

Snow, sun, red dirt . . .

hiking, 4-wheelin', wine,

crystals, vortexes, lore

and woo woo.

What's NOT to smile about?

MUCH In Progress

2011-03-31T16:07:00.000-07:00

and nothing close to finished!

I love it!

The messier, the more colorful, the more creative chaos, the better!

Have I Told You?

2011-03-28T09:02:00.000-07:00

Have I told you about my sketch book habit?
It's gotten pretty bad.

It can wake me at the oddest hours . . . like 4am today.

I keep my art bag nearby, so I can get a quick fix.

The smallest things thrill me - like the way certain black markers will smear with a touch of my waterbrush, making for the most delightful shading effects.

Or how the tiniest bit of color wakes me up . . . better than a $4 morning mocha latte!